Seattle Animal Shelter news and events

Seattle Animal Shelter Foster Dog Orientation Set for April 11, 2009

SEATTLE — If you’re interested in becoming a foster parent for homeless, sick or immature dogs and puppies from the Seattle Animal Shelter, plan to attend a free orientation session on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at the shelter, 2061 15th Ave. W. The session runs from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and will be held in the conference room located on the shelter’s upper level. Space is limited, so please RSVP to sasfosterdogs@gmail.com.

Those who attend an orientation session are under no obligation to foster a dog. The orientation is just the first step in the process. Each foster parent is provided with a foster-care manual and a “consultant” who provides advice and answers questions. The Seattle Animal Shelter pays for all pre-approved veterinary care for dogs in foster care.

“The foster-care program is a proven life-saving program,” says Seattle Animal Shelter Director Don Jordan. “Last year more than 1,000 dogs and cats were saved because individuals opened their hearts and homes to these animals. The community plays a key role in our efforts to get these animals ready for adoption,” Jordan adds. “We really rely on our volunteers and appreciate their efforts. We couldn’t do it without them.”

Jordan says the foster dog program is quite simple. Foster parents provide food and a temporary home; the Seattle Animal Shelter provides any necessary veterinary care (subsidized by the shelter’s “Help The Animals Fund”). This is another effort by the Seattle Animal Shelter to increase the number of adoptions and reduce the number of animals that are needlessly euthanized each year.

“Volunteers have told us this is a perfect project for the whole family and gives families an opportunity to teach their children about the responsibilities of having an animal without making a long-term commitment,” Jordan says. “The rewards and satisfaction are high.”